Resurfaced Story Reveals John Cena Quietly Paid WWE Superstars’ US$100,000 Fine Over Off-Script Match
A previously underreported incident from a 2022 WWE dark match has resurfaced, shedding new light on John Cena’s reputation as a behind-the-scenes hero after he reportedly paid US$100,000 in fines on behalf of fellow superstars disciplined for going off script during a non-televised performance.
The incident involved six performers including former WWE star Aiden English (real name Matthew Rehwoldt), tag team The Usos, and a referee who improvised during a post-broadcast match.
The contest turned into what Rehwoldt described as a “superkick party,” earning loud cheers from fans in attendance but prompting disciplinary action backstage.
“When we got backstage, the atmosphere changed completely — we were immediately reprimanded,” Rehwoldt recalled in a 2020 YouTube video.
“Vince McMahon and Triple H were not present, but the producers and talent relations officials were furious. They told us, ‘That is not how this business is done. You embarrassed yourselves, and you embarrassed the industry.”
According to Rehwoldt, the performers were threatened with termination and warned of individual fines ranging from US$10,000 to US$20,000.
What began as an unplanned crowd-pleasing match quickly turned into a costly internal controversy — until John Cena reportedly stepped in to resolve it.
Rehwoldt later shared on X (formerly Twitter) that Cena personally covered the full amount of the fines for all involved, according to Sportbible.com.
The combined penalty was said to be approximately US$100,000.
Cena, 48, has long been revered as a locker room leader and respected figure among peers.
Beyond his celebrated in-ring career, his influence off-camera has been marked by generosity, mentorship, and selflessness.
He also holds the Guinness World Record for most wishes granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with over 650 completed by 2022.
Reflecting on his 500th wish back in 2015, Cena said:
“I cannot say enough how cool it is to see the kids so happy, and their families so happy.
“I truly want to show them that it is their day. I just drop everything. I do not care what I am doing,” he stated.
Although the match happened years ago, the story’s resurgence in 2025 reinforces John Cena’s enduring legacy — not just as a WWE champion, but as a symbol of loyalty, humility, and quiet leadership within one of the most theatrical industries in the world.
